I get its about doing the best with what you have, but if you can't make it in the playoffs you aren't a coach of the year...

Normally I'd agree with your second statement, but the possible turn around is just too significant to ignore.

In the two prior years to Adelman's arrival, the T-Wolves went 32-130.

This year, Minny might go 33-33 but still miss the playoffs. That's a scenario in which I can see Adelman winning the award.

If they finish the year strong, they will be doing it without Rubio. I think voters could be sympathetic to that, as well. It highlights the fact that it's not all Rubio.

Think about it: if you can win more games in one SHORTENED season than the organization won in the two previous full seasons, you've done a hell of a coaching job. The teams goes from a complete joke to a respectable franchise almost over night.